ARCHITECT@WORK Brussels: a must-attend event for specifiers

ARCHITECT@WORK Brussels: a must-attend event for specifiers

For specifiers, ARCHITECT@WORK Brussels is a firm fixture on the calendar. The third edition of the event will take place on Wednesday 20 and Thursday 21 May 2026 at Tour & Taxis. This year’s central theme, Thoughtful Tomorrow, highlights conscious and forward-looking building practices, with a strong focus on sustainability, resilience and social value. Over the course of two days, visitors will discover innovative product solutions and have the opportunity to build valuable connections within the sector.

Product innovations by exhibitors

One of the key strengths of ARCHITECT@WORK Brussels is its strong emphasis on innovation and quality. The event brings together a carefully curated selection of exhibitors presenting more than 300 innovative products. Visitors gain a clear and up-to-date overview of the solutions that will shape the market in 2026. Everything is presented according to the familiar ARCHITECT@WORK concept, featuring a clean and uniform stand design complemented by inviting lounge areas. These create a relaxed atmosphere where professionals can meet, exchange knowledge and network.

A@W ACADEMY – an inspiring mix of national and international speakers

During ARCHITECT@WORK Brussels, six seminars offer up-to-date insights into sustainability, technology and living environments. Bob Bulcaen (witblad) explores how renovation and interior architecture can evolve towards an integrated approach to space, comfort and impact. Jean-Didier Steenackers (Sunsoak Design) examines the role of renewable energy in the city of the future and the integration of “solar machines” into the urban fabric. Dickon Hayward (Material Works Architecture) demonstrates how lean design and circular strategies can disrupt the renovation cycle, using Sustainable Ventures in London as a case study. Pieter Verfaillie (Erfgoed en Visie) advocates for the architect as a reprogrammer, with a focus on reuse and heritage. A lecture by Architectura addresses the impact of AI on architectural practice. Finally, Jesse Honsa (KU Leuven) presents Split Kit, introducing new strategies for subdividing existing homes as a response to housing needs in Flanders.

Exhibitions and side events

This year, Brussels will host a wide range of innovative exhibitions and inspiring side events. MATERIATEK, Belgium’s largest independent materials library, presents a special exhibition on bespoke materials, focusing on the transformation and revaluation of existing materials. FEBELARCH and FEBELCEM showcase innovative applications of prefabricated concrete through prototypes. The exhibition by UHasselt – Faculty of Architecture and Arts highlights how research and design work together towards a more sustainable building practice, featuring projects on earth blocks, mycelium and urban harvesting. In addition, the World-Architects project exhibition once again forms part of the programme, alongside a carefully curated bookshop in collaboration with Lannoo, and an art presentation featuring the work of Jonas Vansteenkiste.